PORTAGE | Plans moved forward this week for the proposed construction of a Car-X Auto Service facility at 6693 U.S. 6.

The Portage Plan Commission approved sending a favorable recommendation to the City Council to rezone a parcel of property on the south side of the highway, about 1/4 mile east of Airport Road from residential to commercial to accommodate the facility.

Mark Hallmen, of Portage, holds the Porter County franchise rights from the company.

Attorney Mike Handlon, representing Hallmen, said the facility will be 40- by 115-feet in size and contain eight service bays. Initial access will be a right in/right out drive on U.S. 6. Eventually, said Handlon, as Veterans Avenue is extended east of Airport Road, there will be a second access to the site.

The proposal will now go to the City Council, likely in July. Hallmen also will have to seek a special exception from the Board of Zoning Appeals for the facility.